How Jing Li Redefines Visual Storytelling ThroughHer Signature Style

Jing Li’s sketchbook, featured by The Washington Post in 2020, offered a glimpse into an artist capturing the quiet and reflection of a world in lockdown. Her graphite drawings, layered with digital textures and airbrush techniques, resonated widely. The moment underscored her ability to blend traditional methods with modern tools, marking her emergence as a thoughtful and relevant voice in contemporary art.

“I wanted to create something tactile yet modern,” says Jing Li, whose creative range spans editorial illustrations, packaging designs, and children’s books. “That sketchbook was my way of processing what was happening around me—it was deeply personal but also became a foundation for my art today.”

Li’s ability to blend hand-drawn textures with digital methods has earned her collaborations with prestigious publications such as The Washington Post and Tricycle: The Buddhist Review. Her work has also been sought after by brands like BMW China and CEMOY Australia. Through her distinctive style, she has carved a unique space in the competitive field of illustration.

Expanding Visual Narratives in Storytelling

Photo Courtesy of Jing Li

Jing Li’s contributions to children’s literature highlight her talent for crafting compelling visual narratives. Her pop-up book The Amazing Ocean, published in 2024, combines intricate designs with interactive elements that immerse young readers in underwater adventures. She is working on a second pop-up book centered on dinosaurs, a project that requires meticulous attention to manufacturing templates while maintaining artistic integrity.

Her earlier works, such as Lunch from Home (Penguin Workshop) and Secret of the Leap (Qingdao Publisher), have received critical acclaim for their cultural depth and emotional resonance. Lunch from Home, which explores identity through food, earned spots on prestigious lists like the American Library Association’s Rainbow Book List in 2023.

“I strive to bring diverse characters and stories to life,” says Li. “Representation matters, especially in children’s books.” Through bold compositions and unique color choices, she has become a valued collaborator in editorial work, from illustrating features for Tricycle Magazine to designing covers for L’OFFICIEL China, highlighting her adaptability across creative formats.

A Solo Exhibition That Highlights Artistic Excellence

Photo Courtesy of Jing Li

In 2021, Jing Li showcased her work at The Urban Connections exhibition during the Shanghai Jing’An International Design Festival. However, her solo show, sponsored by IM Motor truly highlighted her artistic evolution. This exhibition celebrated her ability to bridge tradition and technology by featuring a collection of graphite-digital hybrids.

“It was important for me to show how illustration can stand as fine art,” says Li about the solo show held in Shanghai. “I wanted people to see that illustration isn’t just about storytelling—it can be an independent art form.”

Her achievements have earned recognition from prestigious awards such as American Illustration (34th, 38th, and 41st editions) and Communication Arts (2016 and 2019). These accolades underscore her influence within the global creative community.

Crafting Timeless Art Across Mediums

Photo Courtesy of Jing Li

Jing Li’s work challenges conventional boundaries by combining handmade textures with digital tools—a methodology she has refined over years of practice. Her use of airbrush techniques adds depth and whimsy to her creations, making them both visually striking and emotionally engaging.

This unique style resonates across diverse audiences—from children exploring pop-up books to collectors admiring fine art exhibitions. Her upcoming dinosaur-themed pop-up book further reflects her dedication to crafting engaging narratives that transcend traditional formats while connecting deeply with audiences through meaningful storytelling.

Li continues developing new projects that showcase the versatility of illustration while connecting deeply with audiences through meaningful storytelling.